Alert, Kazakh at home

As far as I remember, Shevy changed nationality during his life. But he boldly took his chance last season at the same tournament...

Shevy hasn’t really changed this season. There are tournaments where he’s on, and tournaments where he’s not. He’s known for raising his level when he’s motivated and there’s a big matchup. And even coming back from injury, playing Djere in a night session on center court at the only main-tour event in Kazakhstan, I think that’s not bad for him. Not bad because Djere is a real handful, and he’ll naturally take the initiative in the rallies since he’s the more powerful one. So we’ll see Shevy in his jackal mode, trying to counter everything and go for it as soon as he sees an opening. In an ATP 250 first round, I think the analysis mainly comes down to trying to anticipate each player’s level and motivation. Djere is back, and he’ll naturally be motivated to find his best level again. On the other hand, if it turns into a big fight, he might drop in intensity late in the match. And I think Shevy won’t let anything go. So if the odds allow it, I’ve got my bets in mind...